A deadline day signing in the summer of 2022, the Japanese international has forged a reputation as one of the finest defensive midfielders in world football during her time at the Joie Stadium.
Indeed, Hasegawa’s standout displays during her debut campaign saw her named in the PFA Barclays Women’s Super League Team of the Season and shortlisted for the 2023 Ballon d’Or.
And while the midfielder admits she wasn’t expecting such impressive individual recognition, she believes her game has gone to new heights at City.
“I was surprised at that, because I hadn’t scored many goals or made many assists, but I was very pleased,” she said of her Ballon d’Or and Team of the Year inclusion.
“It’s been a special time for me at City.
“I feel like I’ve developed a lot here. I changed from an offensive to a defensive position, so I’ve developed defensively.
“I used to play similar football in Japan, so it helped me a lot. I’ve had confidence from when I played my first game.”
Hasegawa also says that the close bond she has with the rest of the squad played an important part in her desire to sign a contract extension.
She’s an extremely influential player for City on the pitch, and an incredibly well-respected member off it among her team-mates.
Not that the midfielder likes to admit that, though.
On her popularity in the squad, she joked: “I don’t think so, they are just being nice to me!
“[But] yes, it’s very important because they are such good players and good people.”
The Japanese international was also quick to highlight the influence that Gareth Taylor has had on her performances during her time at the Club so far.
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Despite having played in a more defensive role before, Hasegawa had predominantly plied her trade in a more attacking midfield position, including at her previous club, West Ham United.
However, the boss’ decision to switch the 26-year-old to the base of the engine room has brought the best out of her.
On the City boss, she said: “He gives me a lot of confidence.
“He tells me when I’ve played well. He shows me videos as well of my good play, but also where I need to improve.”
